DE69726562T2 - RADIO CONTROLLED IMMOBILIZER - Google Patents

Abstract

A engine kill switch system has a transmitter and receiver which are linked through specific transmitted codes within a frequency. The receiver is mounted directly on the boat and wired to an engine kill switch, maintaining the switch in the closed position as long as a signal is received from all of the activated transmitters. Once the transmitter signal is unintentionally deactivated, the receiver shuts down the engine. A range adjustment allows the separation distance between the transmitter and receiver to be changed, dependent upon the size of the boat and end use. A strobe and audio warning can also be attached to the receiver and activated simultaneously with, or as an alternative to, the deactivation of the engine. Automatic transmitter activation and deactivation can be provided through storage ports tied to the receiver. The transmitter is a battery powered remote device carried by a user. The transmitter has a programmed unique code recognized by the receiver. The system, or individual components, are provided with deactivation codes entered through an input device. The system can also be used as an antitheft device simply by removal of one transmitter, thereby rendering the engine inoperable.

Description

background the invention

Field of the Invention

A radio controlled motor cut-out, which automatically drives an engine in response to inactivation of a recognized individual code, which is continuously from is sent to a remote transmitter.

Brief description of the State of the art

Motor boating is a popular however more dangerous Sports. Although regular reports of boat accidents occur deaths many deaths will occur caused by people overboard fall and drown before they are found in rough seas. Various security devices have attempted to address this problem to solve, however, none of these devices offer the present combination of mobility and security. Although the danger associated with water was recognized, none of the devices according to the status the technology to the question of safety in mobile water devices, which relates to stopping the mobile device in the event of a passenger or driver over Board falls, refers.

U.S. Patent No. 4,549 169 by Moura et al. discloses a security device which from a transmitter and a receiver which triggers an alarm, if a signal is missing. The Moura et al. is however only is based on immersion in water and offers no control over which is based on a distance. French patent 2 609 961 an alarm system is disclosed, which on the distance of the transmitter to receiver is based. When a maximum distance is reached, the signal switched off and one of various arrangements is made. In the present invention, the system is controlled the removal and elimination of a signal by in water Immersion is activated because the combination of these two provides the greatest security offers. Can only rely on immersion in water cause the system to activate in rough seas if a wave over the boat washes. While However, the most critical time of a storm is an overboard indicator use. This would be however, this is also a time for the highest risk of a false report. If you only rely on the distance, this prevents controllability the arrangement. Furthermore can in ships, such as B. Freighters who charge the signal from one Block crew member and thereby the alarm due to a trigger wrong signal. The combination of immersion in water with the distance offers an additional Security, which is necessary for a wider application of the Allow device.

Summary of the invention

The engine inactivation system includes at least one portable transmitter with an independent power source, such as. B. a rechargeable battery, the transmitter being a constant one sends out individually identifiable signal. A receiver receives and recognizes the identifiable signal from each of the transmitters. A reception of the signal by the receiver receives the shutdown element in a running mode upright and an interruption in the constant signal from one of the transmitters is activated the stop mode. A restoration of the sending of the Signals switches the shutdown means back to the run mode. An on / off device on both the receiver and the transmitter can be provided to turn off each unit. The recipient also includes a shutdown element which is connected to the engine and maintains a run mode and a stop mode, wherein the stop mode switches off the engine. A distance control device varies the distance between the transmitter and the receiver. A Antenna transmits the signal between the sender and the receiver. Audio and visual alarms can also be included. An emergency shutdown device should also be provided to cancel the transmission of the signal and to put the shutdown means in the stop mode, with the engine stopped. A protective device prevents that the emergency shutdown means are activated unintentionally.

If the signal is blocked by the receiver, the shutdown device is put into the stop mode, which cuts off the power supply to the machine. The Signal is blocked when the transmitter enters or is out of water the transmission distance is. A priority device enables the shutdown means is in the run mode without a recognized one Signal is received. At least two indicator lights are provided, which display the energy status of the transmitter and receiver, the energy status the independent Power supply of the transmitter is included. The indicator lights can be color coded to indicate at least one of the following states: charging, sending or Low Battery Level / Condition Check.

The transmitter can be stored near the receiver when not in use, sending the Signals starts when the transmitter is separated from the receiver. The broadcast is stopped when the transmitter has returned to the receiver.

The receiver can also use an encoding system which include the individually identifiable signal from each the sender accepts and the receiver encoded to recognize the respective signal. A data processor can receive data from both the sender and the receiver and feed this data into a database and the data displays.

Short description of the drawings

The advantages of the present disclosure will be clarified with the help of the detailed description and the drawings, in which:

1 a front view of a radio controlled engine cut-off switch, which is intended for a small boat;

2 a front view of an alternative embodiment of the radio controlled engine cut-off switch 1 is;

3 is a schematic representation of a radio-controlled engine cut-off switch for a larger boat, which uses a separate transmitter bar and a receiver;

4 Figure 3 is a front view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

5 Figure 3 is a perspective view of a receiver and transmitter for a single user;

6 an example receiver flow diagram for use with the engine shutdown switch according to 5 is;

7 an example transmitter flow chart for use with the engine shutdown switch according to 5 is;

8th an example transmitter block diagram for use with the engine shutdown switch according to 5 is; and

9 an example receiver block diagram for use with the engine shutdown switch according to FIG 5 is.

Detailed description the invention

The radio controlled engine shutdown system, which is disclosed here provides a security device ready for use on boats, jet skis and other watercraft, as well as a safety device for other motor vehicles. The system receives activation of the motor only upright as long as signals from all activated Senders are received, which have been paired with the individual receiver. All equipment described here must water resistant be and be able to salt water and related Resist corrosion.

Activating the receiver by interrupting the transmitter signal is a critical safety measure. It is critical to switch off the engine as soon as a person falls into the water. A unit that initiates the signal upon entering the water may fail to achieve the desired effect if the unit is defective. If the unit fails in the disclosed invention, this will result in safety shutdown of the boat. A radio frequency controlled multi-user receiver 14 with multiple transmitters 12 is in 1 shown. The radio stations 12 , which are carried by the operator and passengers are coded to work with the radio receiver 14 , which is installed in the boat or another motorized watercraft, to interact. The radio frequency (RF) contact between the transmitter 12 and the recipient 14 must be maintained to keep the engine running. If the RF contact is interrupted, the motor is switched off immediately. Although a wide range of radio frequencies and the corresponding types of antennas can be used, a frequency is preferred which has low water transmission tolerances, which is advantageous in some applications. To keep the present explanation simple, reference is made to boat engines, but the present invention is also applicable to other motorized water devices, such as. B. jet skis to inactivate.

The radio controlled engine shutdown switch system 10 allows the operator as well as the occupants to move freely in the vehicle, with the safety benefits of an engine shutdown switch being available. While boarding a motorized boat of almost any size, all or a selected number of passengers become a small radio station 12 either attached to their bodies or clothes. Any transmitter 12 transmits its own unique signal which, when activated, from the receiver 14 which is installed in the vehicle is recognized. Activation of the RF signal can be done by removing the transmitter 12 from the recipient 14 , an on / off switch, or other means that are obvious to the person skilled in the art. The RF signal can also be sent and received continuously, although battery drain is significant with this method. The recipient 14 can preferably be set at a distance, the setting depending on the size of the vehicle and the intended use. If the passengers were out fishing, the reception area would therefore be much smaller than if the passengers were out skiing. When the radio broadcast from any inactivated transmitter stops, a switch in the receiver 14 immediately switched, whereby the ignition system of the boat engine is deactivated. Since approximately 75% of all boating-related deaths are directly attributable to the fact that the operator or an occupant is thrown out of their vehicle immediately, the funkge controlled engine shutdown switch 10 a potentially essential safety device to reduce boating deaths.

The radio station 12 , Part of the engine cut-off switch 10 , is a weatherproof device which is fastened around the neck, wrist, arm, hip or ankle of the occupant of a motorized boat. If the transmitter 12 activated, it transmits a constant radio signal from the receiver 14 is recognized. Depending on various factors, such as B. the antenna types used, the transmitter uses 12 a specific, individual code that falls within a specific frequency.

In addition to the ability to inactivate the engine, the transmitter includes 12 preferably different security features. A replaceable lithium magnesium dioxide battery or a rechargeable battery, e.g. B. a nickel cadmium battery, are optimal for the transmitter 12 can be charged when not in use. The transmitter 12 should also be an ad 16 low battery condition, with both rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries. It is therefore preferred that the transmitter 12 are constructed so that a low battery condition gives the same result as an empty battery. This minimizes the risk of a battery being drained during use. A "panic button" operated by hand 18 which is in each transmitter 12 installed, allows any occupant who has a transmitter 12 carries the signal of their individual transmitter 12 interrupt, and consequently inactivate the motor. This feature is particularly useful if a passenger who does not have a transmitter 12 has been thrown overboard. Thus, every passenger who owns a transmitter 12 carries the ignition of the boat by using the "panic button" 18 inactivate without needing to notify the boat operator to manually turn off the machine. The panic button 18 may have a cover to prevent accidental activation, but access to the panic button is required 18 can be done quickly and easily. A spring loaded, hinged cover would be an example of an easy to use, quickly accessible cover.

As already noted, every transmitter has 12 a uniquely coded signal with its own identification (ID), which in turn is sent by the receiver 14 is recognized. One possible way to do this is to use an application specific integrated circuit or a microprocessor controller. An exemplary block diagram for both a transmitter and a receiver is provided using the 8th and 9 described. Other methods of recognizing certain ID codes will be known to those skilled in the art. By having a uniquely coded signal that includes its own ID, a large number of transmitters can be operated on a common frequency. The recipient 14 is installed directly in the boat near the boat operator and is wired to the engine, whereby existing switch-off switch wiring is replaced or supplemented. The switching device remains closed as long as the constant signals from all recognized and activated transmitters 12 be received. If recipient 14 the activated signal of one of the transmitters 12 If the switch loses, it opens and grounds or interrupts the power supply to the engine injection system and thus switches the engine off.

As mentioned above, the radio receiver is 14 preferably equipped with the ability to be able to adjust the reception area between the transmitter and the receiver. This can be done using an adjustable receiver sensitivity which is adjusted using a screw, button or device known in the art. This setting can also be accessible to the boat operator and the setting can be made by him using an area adjuster 20 respectively. By being an accessible range adjuster 20 is provided, the operator is free to set the area depending on the current use. If the recipient 14 with an accessible range adjuster 20 is equipped, a time-activated default area is preferably in the receiver 14 built-in. This way the recipient 14 automatically reset when the operator sets a water ski area and forgets to reset that area, the area being reset to the default setting after a predetermined time. The ability to set the range is therefore necessary so that a single system can be used with vehicles of common sizes.

The electronic circuits contained in the receiver make it possible to search for and recognize any codes within the specific frequency. At the time of manufacture, the recipient 14 programmed with a specific frequency. According to a recognition process, the transmitters 12 manufactured so that every transmitter 12 sends out an individual code within this specific frequency. Only these individual codes are in the recipient 14 embedded as corresponding codes. The codes can be in recipients 14 be embedded using any known method. The receiver coded in this way 14 has the property of only recognizing a certain number of codes within the frequency, and the transmitters 12 only need to send out the codes embedded in advance. However, this is not a preferred method because it limits the number of transmitters recognizable by each receiver and an accurate one Monitoring of recipient production requires. Preferably the recipient 14 the ability to recognize all codes within the frequency, whereby only codes that are programmed into the receiver by the transmitter will be active and will be recognized by the particular receiver. The programming can be done in hardware such as B. with switches, as well as in software such. B. with light, or other known means, which information can be transmitted from one source to another. This is an advantage if the receiver can recognize all codes and software-based programming is used since this allows the user to purchase additional transmitters without having to worry about whether these transmitters match codes embedded in the receiver in advance , he simply adds these transmitters without the hassle of installing them. The receiver can be equipped with a "programming" mode in which it reads the information from the transmitters and thereby activates the code which was embedded in the receiver at the time of manufacture. When the transmitted codes are identified, the receiver recognizes these codes as active transmitters. All activated transmitter codes are stored and the loss of a signal from an active code activates the engine shutdown switch.

The recipient 14 is preferably by a rechargeable battery, such as. B. nickel cadmium, nickel metal hybrid or lithium operated. Charging can be done either by voltage conversion from a generator, alternator, magnet, magnet or the like, or via photoelectric cells. Since not all powered boat engines have an external energy source, it is critical that the battery is the energy source for operating the receiver.

Within the scope of application on motorized boats, different types of antennas can be used with the receiver 14 be used. The antenna type depends in some cases on the boat type and its size. The frequencies require coordination with the type of antenna used, ie loop antennas require a lower radio frequency transmission than is required by an antenna radiating in all directions.

Another safety feature is a signal / hazard warning light 22 which is preferably directly on the receiver 14 or alternatively is mounted on the hull. The flashing light 22 serves as a visual reminder and / or warning indicator that the shutdown switch receiver 12 was activated. The system is programmable so that in very rough seas, when a sudden power cut could threaten a boat, the system can be adjusted so that only the visual and audible systems are triggered. In addition, while it is obvious to the occupants of the boat that the power supply is interrupted, the flashing light would serve to warn boat crews or divers away from the main vehicle that there is a problem. Even more important, however, is the flashing light 22 works as a signal light that makes it easier for occupants who have been thrown overboard to locate their vehicle at night. The flashing light 22 gets its energy from its own battery 24 , which is rechargeable or a standard battery, and is activated automatically by deactivating a signal from the transmitter 12 , A separate ignition switch can also be provided to turn on the flashing light 22 activated manually while the engine is running. The flashing light 22 can also be wired directly to the boat battery or other available power sources.

If the signal sent from one of the transmitters 12 the flashing light starts 22 to flash, simultaneously or as an alternative to opening the engine shutdown switch described above. The flashing light 22 continues blinking until either the coded signal from the missing transmitter 12 by the recipient 14 is detected or the flashing light 22 and / or the entire system is deactivated.

An audio warning device 26 can be installed to further increase security, which is useful for notifying all passengers who are on and off board. The audio warning unit 26 by deactivating the signal from the transmitter 12 activated. The audio warning unit 26 can have any pitch that can be heard beyond a distance and beyond the sounds of the natural elements. By providing a pitch that drowns out the sounds of the ocean, the audio warning provides a second means that helps a person who has been thrown overboard to locate the vehicle. The audio warning unit preferably works 26 intermittent and thus offers a better localization option.

The flashing light 22 and the audio warning unit 26 , as well as the machine shutdown switch system 10 can be inactivated by hand, although it is recommended that inactivation should be fairly complicated.

The radio controlled machine shutdown switch also functions as an anti-theft device. As already described, the receiver remains closed as long as all transmitter signals are received. If the operator or an occupant of a motor-driven boat voluntarily left the vehicle and thus left the predetermined reception area, the switch in the receiver would open and render the boat engine unusable. Since an interruption of the transmitter signal would activate the flashing light and the audio warning unit, it is recommended to Hand inactivate before use as an anti-theft device.

If the transmitter component 12 is used as the anti-theft device, and thus disconnected from the receiver, the flashing light should 22 and the audio warning unit 26 be deactivated manually until the transmitter signal is received again at a later time. If a station 12 lost, stolen, or otherwise unusable, the user may want the flashing warning light 22 inactivate for convenience. In any case, deactivation would be a deliberate manual decision by the operator. The warning signal flashing light 22 is deactivated by inserting an inactivation code into the receiver 14 is entered. This code would consist of a sequence of numbers, letters, symbols, light signals or the like. via a keyboard or other input devices 28 can be entered. If the deactivation code for the warning signal flashing light has been successfully entered 22 would just turn the warning light 22 inactivated. The switch inside the receiver 14 will remain open if a transmitter signal is lost and the engine would remain unusable. An automatic reset to reactivate the flashing warning light would take place when the receiver 14 the signal from the transmitter 12 recognizes again when the transmitter 12 in the reception area of the receiver 14 returns. The audio warning unit 26 can also be equipped with an inactivating ability in the same way as the flashing light 22 and is preferably at the same time as the flashing light 22 inactivated.

If the user desires, the entire radio controlled engine shutdown system 10 to circumvent this would be accomplished in the same way as the above-described deactivation of the warning signal flashing light 22 , however a more complex code would be used. This overriding procedure would close the engine shutdown switch and allow the engine to be used without the shutdown switch. Disabling the engine shutdown switch would be a fully isolated operation and should not disable the hazard warning signal. Optimally, from a safety point of view, bypassing the switch-off system should flash the warning signal 22 activate. If the entire system is deactivated, the warning light would be deactivated 22 represent a separate work step and are accomplished by the method described above. As a further security feature, a "confirmation code" may be required if the engine shutdown switch system 10 and the flashing light 22 can be deactivated within a certain time interval.

If a transmitter is lost, broken system or becomes unusable in any other way, the system must about that be informed that the broadcast will no longer be received can. This can be achieved in several ways, the easiest way is to turn the engine off by hand and shut it again start, which will restart the system. However, this is only applicable to systems in which the transmitter is not in physical Contact the recipient stand and be activated manually. In systems where the Transmitter with storage spaces connected are, the system must be informed and instructed the transmission loss to accept. This can be done through predetermined input codes can be achieved by means of the input device. Alternatively, you can an "unintelligent" (English: dummy) transmitter belong to every system which sends out a code that is unilaterally accepted by all recipients will and allows that the engine is temporary is reactivated.

Although the system in its simplest form comprises a single transmitter for the user, as described above, the technology allows a significant number of transmitters to be used with a single receiver. The storage, activation and inactivation of the transmitters will change with the size of the application, the manufacturing costs and the demands of the end users. In the special case of a medium-sized vehicle system with approximately ten transmitters, the transmitters can be placed directly in the receiver's structure 14 be stored like this in the 1 and 2 is shown. If the transmitter 12 into a storage bin on the receiver 14 is introduced, the deactivation of the transmitted signal will occur. The transmitter 12 can be connected to the storage bins by one of two methods. According to the first method, each storage bin can have a specific transmitter 12 be connected, this requires the transmitter 12 is placed in the respective storage bin to inactivate the signal. This has the advantage that the name of the user can be placed above the storage space and a transmitter 12 identified with a particular user. indicator lights 30 can be used to indicate which of the transmitters 12 the shutdown switch system 10 activated. As an alternative, every transmitter can 12 be placed in any storage location, whereby the signal is deactivated. Although this does not offer the security feature of knowing the identity of the person who owns the particular broadcaster 12 on the other hand, it makes activation and deactivation easier. The benefits of each system depend on the end use. The storage bins can be a magnetic reed switch 56 or other known means known in the art. When a transmitter is removed from the storage bin, the transmitter signal is automatically activated and by the receiver 14 as an active transmitter 12 recognized.

2 illustrates an alternative construction and includes a location device 58 in the shutdown switch system 50 , The location device 58 is in the receiver 52 incorporated and can be activated automatically when the signal from the transmitter 54 is deactivated. The location device 58 uses a standard localization technique, which is preferably coupled in when the signal from the transmitter 54 is interrupted. Due to the properties of this device, it becomes a localization device for the person or persons who have a transmission contact with the receiver 52 interrupted. A simple directional antenna based on the frequency of the transmitter 54 is set and carried by the lost person, that person can easily locate it. If e.g. B. the operator or a passenger who has a transmitter 54 is disconnected from the vehicle in rough seas, the engine shutdown switch would immediately shut off the engine and / or activate the visual and audio warning systems depending on the programming. If the engine was deactivated, it could be impossible to reunite with the vehicle due to drift, wind, fog, or other conditions of the detached person. A search person who uses a directional antenna would be able to locate the transmission signal and thus also the lost person. The use of a single frequency offers the advantage that the scope of the frequencies to be searched can be limited during the search. In addition, a single matching frequency facilitates other groups, e.g. B. the coast guard or GPS devices (Global Positioning Systems) to monitor lost boat crews. Using the example of a cruise ship, it would be completely possible to locate a child forgotten in a port using a directional antenna. Global positioning systems (GPS) are getting smaller and cheaper and can therefore be included in the disclosed system.

If there are more stations than in 3 shown, the transmitters 104 in a holder rod 102 which with the recipient 108 is wired, stored. The holder bar 102 can be near the receiver 108 or in an accessible place at a distance from the receiver 108 to be available. The recipient 108 can with an ad 110 , such as B. an LED, equipped with the code of any transmitter 104 which sends its signal to the receiver 108 interrupted, display. On large ships, such as B. cruisers or naval ships, the name of the person who carries the respective transmitter can be in the receiver 108 logged in or linked to the on-board computer, which represents a significant safety factor in the event of a child falling overboard or being accidentally left behind during a port stop. If a program is interrupted, not only the usual alarms are activated, but also the identification of the person would be known. The loss of a transmitter signal would result in an audible and / or visible signal being given in the control room and would allow appropriate steps to be taken. The operator would know directly through the computer all essential information regarding the carrier of the interrupted transmitter and would locate the user. This can also be helpful if it is known in advance that the person will not be in the reception area and that the transmission will be interrupted, which enables the system 100 reset. The recipient 108 can alternatively be equipped with capabilities, the alarm for one of the transmitters 104 switch off for a certain period of time, this being reactivated after the period of time has elapsed. This system can be used to advantage with divers, the transmitter 104 is switched off for the period of time which is a little shorter than the air supply in the diving bottles.

4 illustrates an alternative engine shutdown switch system 200 , being the recipient 202 and the transmitters 204 not be in physical contact during storage. Therefore, the original activation and the subsequent deactivation must be done in a different way than by removing the transmitter 204 from the recipient 202 , The transmitters 204 are removed from the storage bin and either activated at the storage bin or to the recipient 202 brought for activation. Each transmitter preferably has 204 his own activation light 206 at the receiver 202 to indicate that the transmitter 204 was activated. An activation of the transmitter 204 can be done by various methods, such as. B. barcodes or magnetic readers. The emergency shutdown or panic button can also be used to activate the transmitter, although this method of activation must be completely different from the operation of the panic button. For example, the panic button would be pulled out and turned to begin transmitter activation. In cases where the same users match over long periods of time, such as B. on marine vehicles, the transmitter 204 associated with a specific person each time it is activated. This can be done by manual entry at the time of activation or in combination with other identification methods that are used with the specific application. In this embodiment, the indicator lights 206 be of the LED type, creating a name or other personal identification element when the transmitter is activated 204 to be provided.

A single user unit 300 is in 5 shown with the transmitter 308 at the receiver 302 is attached for storage and / or charging. In the illustrated embodiment, the front panel 318 a larger scope than the stake 304 , The use of this configuration allows an easy-to-cut hole to be drilled in the mounting area, electrical connections to be made and the unit 300 by using screws or other means known in the art. If the front panel 318 is installed, it covers the entire cut hole, which the insert 304 accepts, which results in a quick and easy installation. The reader should be aware that the illustrated configuration is only an example and other configurations can be used both for the front panel and for use.

As mentioned above, the transmitter is transmitting 308 continuously the specific code to the recipient 302 until the signal is interrupted, e.g. B. by a distance or water. Although the distance between a boat and a user is not critical before the signal is interrupted, an immediate response will be required in an overboard situation. For this reason, a water sensor 312 used to immediately interrupt the signal and turn off the engine. How to in the flowchart 7 sees, the transmitter 308 switched off as soon as water through the water sensor 312 is detected, and the transmitter 308 remains out of service until the transmitter 308 is taken out of the water.

Various methods can be used to set up the transmitter 308 reactivate when removed from the water, which also includes the addition of a reactivation switch, the reactivation being included in the electrical circuit, each of which is reconnected to the receiver 302 requires, or in its simplest form, simple removal from the water. This and other processes are known to the person skilled in the art.

The connection method of the transmitter 308 can be done using any method or combinations of methods known in the art, such as e.g. B. magnets, snap clips or a floor notch. Because of the corrosive properties of salt water, it is preferred that the fastening method be easy to maintain. The transmitter 308 works with batteries in the battery reception area 320 are positioned. As mentioned, the batteries are preferably rechargeable and are sent directly from the receiver 302 charged in one of the various ways according to the prior art. The battery reception area 320 is by the elements through a cap 314 protected. The cap 314 also allows access to the code entry panel 322 , which has the necessary switches to synchronize the signal with the receiver 302 includes or any other manual circuit changes that are necessary due to the electronics used.

Both the recipient 302 as well as the transmitter 308 preferably include visual or audio means to determine the current status. For example, include in the illustrated unit 300 both the recipient 302 as well as the transmitter 308 to shine 306 respectively. 310 , At the in 5 - 9 The example used are both lights 306 and 310 green when the transmitter 308 at the receiver 302 are attached to indicate that the transmitter 308 are charging. If the transmitter 308 from the recipient 302 is removed, the lights 306 and 310 red to confirm that the connection between the transmitter 308 and the recipient 302 exist. The above low battery indicator can also be found in the transmitter lights 310 be integrated by using a flashing mode to indicate the need for recharging. The low battery status of a transmitter 308 can also by the receiver light 306 displayed and would be activated by a weak signal. An audio signal can also be integrated in the transmitter, similar to a beeper, which indicates a low battery status.

The recipient 302 by using a key switch 316 switched on or off. The key switch 316 can include different positions, such as B. Switching on, resetting or switching off the system, which offers the user more options than simple on / off operating states.

6 and 7 provide examples of control flow diagrams for the recipient 302 and the transmitter 308 out 5 The block diagrams of a sample transmitter and receiver are shown in 8th and 9 shown. How to get in 6 sees, the receiver continuously checks whether a code is received, the code being checked with the known addresses of the "paired" transmitters. If the received code address matches the known code address, the receiver proceeds to the next cycle of the method. However, if the code is not received or an incorrect address is received, the system turns off the engine. Various checks and considerations should be integrated to avoid incorrect shutdowns, such as: B. in the flow chart 600 illustrated. The transmitter 308 which in the flow chart 610 is shown remains in a standby mode until it is removed from the receiver. When the transmitter is removed from the receiver, the transmitter circuit adds the transmitter loop and continuously checks for the presence of water. If water is not detected, the system continues the loop. If water is detected, the system switches the transmitter off and enters a lower loop, in which the presence of water is continuously checked. When the transmitter comes out of the water the main loop is entered again and the system continues with the transmission. The basic elements of the receiver and transmitter are shown in the block diagrams 620 and 640 shown.

The activation of the transmitter at the time of Can be used with any of the embodiments described above be realized. In the embodiments in which the transmitter activated in a different way than by removing it from the receiver a shutdown mode can be provided. This can be done by manual entry, the original Activation step is repeated, the engine is switched off or a combination of the two. Optionally, too more than one step is required to turn the transmitters off, to prevent the transmitter from being switched off accidentally. additionally can each of the features described above, such. B. an audio alarm, localization means, etc. can be used with any embodiment, independently of, whether they were described together with the respective embodiment or not.

As mentioned above, there are cases where this automatic engine shutdown puts the vehicle at risk Bring capsizing. As an alternative to manually switching the The engine cut-off switch can be used to switch the engine to visual / audio systems can be used together with computerized sensor devices. The transmitters should include both the degree of inclination as well record the length of time that the vehicle was leaning. If a signal is interrupted, the system thus checks the sensor device. If the slope is greater as a default value set in advance and also available for longer was as a pre-set period of time, the system hits the decision not to turn off the engine. In that both the duration of the inclination and the degree of inclination are checked, become boats that are in the wake of other boats, as well temporary for others disorders do not turn off the engine deactivation.

The disclosed system can also be modified to act as an anti-theft system for rental boats, water skis and to serve other motor vehicles. The vehicles would be with one small individual transceiver equipped become. The transmitter would work as described above, only with the addition of a programmable Time and signal clips. The transmitters would be programmed to a code to the recipient while transmit a predetermined period of time, e.g. B. one and a half Hours in case of rent for one hour. After the predetermined time expires, the transfer would stop the code and thereby deactivate the motor. The transmission of a localization code would then begin whereby this would allow the owner of the vehicle to add the missing vehicle locate. For safety reasons it is recommended that a warning signal be sent by the receiver and / or transmitter which indicates that the vehicle must be returned. A Countdown timer can also be included in the receiver which shows the remaining rental period.

As further modifications and changes various types to adapt to special operating conditions and environments for will be apparent to those skilled in the art, it is believed that the invention is not limited to the examples chosen, which for the revelation chosen have been limited and all changes and modifications which does not deviate from the scope of the invention as it covers in the attached claims is disclosed.

Claims (16)

Engine inactivation system ( 10 . 100 ) for use with user-operated watercraft, the system ( 10 . 100 ) at least one waterproof transmitter ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ), each of the at least one transmitter ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ) is a portable device that sends a constant, individually identifiable signal and is powered by an independent power source, and a receiver ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ), the recipient ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ) the individually identifiable signal from each of the at least one transmitter ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ) receives and recognizes, with the receiver ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ) Shutdown means ( 18 ), the shutdown means ( 18 ) are connected to a motor and have a running mode and an inactivation mode, the inactivation mode switching off the motor; and an antenna, the antenna transmitting the signal between the transmitter ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ) and the recipient ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ) transmits, water sensor means ( 312 ) inside the transmitter ( 12 . 52 . 104 . 204 . 308 ), the water sensor means ( 312 ) Transmission of the signal from the transmitter ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ) to the recipient ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ) stops when immersed in water, the signal is sensitive to water and from the receiver ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ) is blocked when the transmitter ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ) enters the water; characterized by distance monitoring reserve means which set the signal detection threshold between the transmitter ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ) and the recipient ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ) vary, and immediately the deactivation mode when the transmitter is disconnected ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ) and the recipient ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ) over a specified distance ren; manual reset means, the reset means the recipient ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ) Shutdown means ( 18 ) are superior to the mentioned shutdown means ( 18 ) manually in run mode or inactivation mode; the reception of the signal by the receiver ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ) the shutdown means ( 18 ) maintain in a running mode and interrupt the constant signal from one of the at least one transmitter ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ) immediately activates the deactivation mode, which means that the vehicle must be reactivated by restoring the transmission of the signal in order to activate the deactivation means ( 18 ) to run mode or by bypassing the shutdown means ( 18 ) by means of the manual reset means. Engine inactivation system ( 10 . 100 ) according to claim 1, further comprising on / off means which the receiver ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ) inactivate. Engine inactivation system ( 10 . 100 ) according to claim 1, wherein the transmitter ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ) in a position near the receiver ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ) when not in use, with the nearby location allowing the power source to charge. Engine inactivation system ( 10 . 100 ) according to claim 3, wherein the transmitter ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ) when the transmitter is disconnected ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ) from the recipient ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ) the signal starts sending and stops sending when the receiver ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ) is close to the transmitter, the acknowledgment of the proximity of the transmitter by the receiver being the deactivation means ( 18 ) upright in the run mode. Engine inactivation system ( 10 . 100 ) according to claim 1, wherein the transmitter ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ) further includes an on / off means. Engine inactivation system ( 10 . 100 ) according to claim 1, further comprising at least two indicator lamps ( 16 . 30 . 206 . 306 . 310 ), the indicator lights ( 16 . 30 . 206 . 306 . 310 ) the energy status of the transmitter ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ) and the recipient ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ) describe. Engine inactivation system ( 10 . 100 ) according to claim 6, wherein the indicator lamps ( 16 . 30 . 206 . 306 . 310 ) the energy level of the independent energy source within the transmitter ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ) describe. Engine inactivation system ( 10 . 100 ) according to claim 7, wherein the indicator lamps ( 16 . 30 . 206 . 306 . 310 ) are color coded to indicate at least one of the states of charging, transmitting or low battery. Engine inactivation system ( 10 . 100 ) according to claim 1, wherein the receiver ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ) Encoding means, the encoding means the individually identifiable signals from each of the at least one transmitter ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ) and the recipient ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ) encode to recognize each of the individually identifiable signals. Engine inactivation system ( 10 . 100 ) according to claim 1, further comprising data processing means, the data processing means receiving data representing the individual signals from each of the at least one transmitter ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ) identify where the recipient ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ) confirms that each of the at least one transmitter ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ) with the recipient ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ) is in communication, with received data from the individual signal being incorporated into a database and the incorporated data being displayed. Engine inactivation system ( 10 . 100 ) according to claim 1, further comprising direct circumvention means within the recipient ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ), the direct bypass means allowing the vehicle to remain in the run mode without the transmitter ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ) is activated to send the signal again. Engine inactivation system ( 10 . 100 ) according to claim 1, further comprising water-resistant audio alarm means ( 26 ), the audio alarm means ( 26 ) have a pitch that can be heard via ocean waves and ambient noise, and the audio alarm means ( 26 ) when the signal from the transmitter is deactivated ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ) to be activated. Engine inactivation system ( 10 . 100 ) according to claim 1, further comprising water-resistant visual alarm means ( 22 ), the visual alarm means ( 22 ) have sufficient brightness to be seen over a long distance in harsh weather, and the visual alarm means ( 22 ) when the signal from the transmitter is deactivated ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ) to be activated. Engine inactivation system ( 10 . 100 ) according to claim 1, further comprising an emergency shutdown means ( 18 ) within each of the at least one transmitter ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ), whereby manual activation of the emergency shutdown means ( 18 ) interrupts the transmission of the signal and thereby the switch-off means ( 18 ) in the deactivation mode. Engine inactivation system ( 10 . 100 ) according to claim 14, further comprising protective means, the protective means preventing the emergency shutdown means ( 18 ) are activated accidentally. Method for locking a motor by removing an individually recognizable signal, which uses a device that has at least one waterproof transmitter ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ), each of the at least one waterproof transmitter ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ) is a portable device that constantly emits an individually identifiable signal and is powered by an independent energy source, the signal having little water transmission; at least one indicator lamp ( 16 . 30 . 206 . 306 . 310 ), the indicator lamp ( 16 . 30 . 206 . 306 . 310 ) the energy status of the transmitter ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ) designated; a recipient ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ), the recipient ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ) the identifiable signal from each of the receivers ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ) receives and recognizes, with the receiver ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ) Shutdown means ( 18 ), the shutdown means ( 18 ) are connected to a motor and have a run mode and an inactivation mode, the inactivation mode shutting off the motor; On / Off means, the On / Off means the recipient ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ) inactivate; at least one indicator lamp ( 16 . 30 . 206 . 306 . 310 ), the indicator lamp ( 16 . 30 . 206 . 306 . 310 ) the energy status of the receiver ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ) designated; manual reset means to bypass the recipient ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ) Shutdown means ( 18 ) to switch off the ( 18 ) manually in the run mode or in the deactivation mode, and an antenna, the antenna transmitting the signal between the transmitter ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ) and the recipient ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ) transmits, characterized by the steps: a) activating the receiver ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ) by the on / off means; b) checking the energy status of the transmitter ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ); c) setting of distance monitoring means, the distance monitoring means the maximum transmission distance between the transmitter ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ) and the recipient ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ) vary; d) relocation of the deactivation means ( 18 ) in the deactivation mode; c) attaching the transmitter ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ) to a user; d) Check that the recipient ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ) receives the individually identifiable signal; e) inactivating the transmitter if the transmitter detects the presence of water and reactivating the transmitter if the transmitter detects no presence of water; receiving the signal by the receiver ( 14 . 52 . 108 . 202 . 302 ) the shutdown means ( 18 ) maintains in a running mode and interruption of the constant signal from one of the at least one transmitter ( 12 . 54 . 104 . 204 . 308 ) immediately activates the deactivation mode, which makes it necessary to reactivate the vehicle by resuming the transmission of the signal in order to activate the deactivation means ( 18 ) to put it into run mode or the shutdown means ( 18 ) to deal with the manual reset means.